The Carolina Panthers are eyeing a local flavor for their 2026 draft strategy, and it could be a game-changer. According to NFL.com's Eric Edholm, the Panthers have their sights set on two standout players who could fill key roles on their roster.
First up is Clemson's offensive tackle, Blake Miller, projected to be the Panthers' 19th overall pick. Now, here's a fun fact: Carolina has never drafted a player from Clemson before.
But that could change with Miller, who seems like the perfect fit to eventually step into Taylor Moton's shoes. Moton has been a rock on the right side for eight seasons, but adding Miller would inject some fresh athleticism into the Panthers' offensive line.
Standing tall at 6-foot-7 and weighing in at 317 pounds, Miller brings a strong resume as a two-time first-team All-ACC selection during his four-year stint at Clemson.
Next on the Panthers' radar is cornerback Brandon Cisse from the University of South Carolina, pegged for the 51st pick. While the local connection is purely coincidental, Cisse's addition could bolster the Panthers' defensive backfield with much-needed depth and speed. The dynamic duo of Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson shone brightly in 2025, but the lack of depth was exposed during Horn's absence in their playoff clash against the Rams.
Cisse, hailing from Sumter, S.C., also brings experience from his two years at North Carolina State University, making him a versatile asset for Carolina's defense.
With these potential picks, the Panthers are not just looking to add talent-they're aiming to secure their future with homegrown stars who know what it means to play for Carolina.